GIS Technician
GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Technicians play a vital role in Hawaiʻi’s water and wastewater sector by mapping critical infrastructure and supporting decision-making with spatial data. They collect, manage, and analyze geographic data to help utilities, engineers, and planners visualize systems like water mains, sewer lines, storm drains, and flood zones.
In Hawaiʻi, GIS Technicians are employed by county water departments, public works divisions, environmental consulting firms, and state agencies such as the Department of Health or DLNR. Their work supports climate resilience, emergency response, land use planning, infrastructure upgrades, and community engagement.
Education & Training
This position typically requires:
An Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Geography, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering Technology, or a related field.
Training in GIS software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or AutoCAD.
Experience with GPS data collection tools and data management systems.
Internships or coursework in cartography, geospatial analysis, or database management are often valued.
Many technicians pursue certification through programs like Esri’s GIS Certification or the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI).
In Hawai’i, you can study at:
Kapiʻolani Community College (KCC)
GIS Certificate Program – Offers ArcGIS training and hands-on experience.
Website: https://www.kapiolani.hawaii.edu
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UH Mānoa)
BA in Geography & Environment with GIS and Remote Sensing tracks
Graduate GIS certificate available
Website: https://geography.manoa.hawaii.edu
Windward Community College
Offers GIS-focused courses through their science and sustainability programs
Website: https://windward.hawaii.edu
Leeward Community College (LCC)
Courses in Geographic Information Systems integrated into environmental science and tech pathways
Website: https://www.leeward.hawaii.edu
University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
Geography & Environmental Science with GIS and field mapping courses
Website: https://hilo.hawaii.edu
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of:
GIS mapping tools (ArcGIS, QGIS),
Data layers for infrastructure, land use, zoning, climate, and hydrology,
Utility asset mapping, as-builts, and easement identification,
GPS surveying techniques,
Environmental data sources (e.g., FEMA flood maps, DOH records),
Public records and regulatory datasets (e.g., TMKs, SMA, CZM zones).
Skill in:
Creating and updating geospatial databases,
Mapping water and wastewater systems,
Analyzing environmental and demographic data,
Coordinating with engineers, field crews, and planners,
Communicating data visually through maps and dashboards,
Using remote sensing and LiDAR data when applicable.
Ability to:
Troubleshoot spatial data discrepancies and errors,
Translate community or technical needs into accurate maps,
Maintain clear documentation of data sources and methodologies,
Adapt maps and visuals for public meetings or regulatory review,
Work in the field to ground-truth or collect GIS data when needed.
Scholarships & Opportunities
Esri’s Young Scholar Program – Recognizes student excellence in GIS.
Website: https://www.esri.com/en-us/about/young-scholar-program
USGS & NOAA Internships – Often hire students with GIS backgrounds in Hawaiʻi.
Sites: https://www.usgs.gov | https://coast.noaa.gov
Hawaiʻi Geographic Information Coordinating Council (HIGICC) -Offers local networking, workshops, and job boards. Website: https://www.higicc.org